People in Carmarthenshire could be paying some of the highest energy bills across Wales.
This is due to the low energy efficiency of homes in the area, according to new data.
The research, conducted by commercial property marketplace EG Propertylink, used data from GOV.UK to determine the percentage of homes rated EPC band C or above over a 10-year period, from the second quarter of 2014 to the first quarter of 2024.
The findings revealed that only 33.75 per cent of homes in Carmarthenshire are rated EPC band C or above.
This means that a significant number of homes in the area may not have the necessary energy-saving features, potentially leading to increased energy expenses for residents.
Carmarthenshire ranks fourth in the list of areas with the least energy-efficient homes in Wales, with only Gwynedd, Ceredigion, and Powys having a lower percentage of homes rated EPC band C or above.
Gwynedd tops the list, with only 25.62 per cent of homes rated at band C or above, followed by Ceredigion with 30.20 per cent, and Powys with 32.27 per cent.
Chloe Ward, product manager at EG Propertylink, commented on the findings.
She said: "This new data underscores the importance of enhancing home energy efficiency across Wales, especially in areas like Gwynedd and Ceredigion, where the majority of homes lack sufficient energy efficiency.
"Upgrading insulation and other energy-saving features not only helps reduce household bills but also supports sustainable living."
The research also identified the areas in Wales that could be paying the least in energy bills due to high energy efficiency.
Newport came out on top, with 55.81 per cent of homes rated EPC band C or above.
This suggests that residents in Newport may be benefiting from lower energy costs due to the energy efficiency of their homes.
The findings highlight the importance of energy efficiency in reducing household bills and supporting sustainable living.
They also suggest that residents in areas with low energy efficiency may benefit significantly from energy-saving upgrades.
The research serves as a reminder of the financial and environmental benefits of improving home energy efficiency.
With energy costs continuing to rise, the need for energy-saving measures is more pressing than ever.
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